AI is powerful, but human intelligence is priceless—it will not replace designers: Four fashion icons at YFLO’s ‘Style Speaks Strategy’

Fashion transcends fabric—it is an expression of emotion, identity, and culture. While Artificial Intelligence (AI) can streamline processes, it cannot replicate the intuition, imagination, and cultural sensitivity that define a designer’s work. This was the key takeaway from a compelling discussion featuring four leading fashion experts—Karan Torani, Tanya Ghavri, Namrata Joshipura, and Anjali Gaekwar—moderated by Ms. Pallavi Jain, Chairperson of YFLO (Young FICCI Ladies Organisation), at the session titled ‘Style Speaks Strategy’, held on Saturday evening at Park Hyatt, Banjara Hills.

Opening the session, Pallavi Jain set the tone by stating, “Knowledge is power. Today, we exchange ideas not through textbooks or boardrooms, but through style, creativity, and strategic thinking. Fashion is more than attire—it fuels economies, drives innovation, and shapes identity. Behind every trend is a narrative, behind every design is a strategy, and behind every successful brand is years of dedication and expertise.”

AI in Fashion: A Tool, Not a Threat

The panel emphasised that AI will enhance, not replace, the role of designers—transforming how they work rather than diminishing their value.

Karan Torani, founder of Torani, remarked, “Just as photography did not replace painting, AI will not replace fashion design—it will redefine it. AI may handle repetitive tasks, but designers will focus more on creative direction, storytelling, sustainability, and emotional branding.”

He further added, “Technology may advance, but cultural roots endure. Even in a digital age, traditions remain—take weddings for example, the ‘bandwala’ is still part of the celebration.”

Tanya Ghavri, celebrity stylist, observed, “AI may have intelligence, but humans have imagination. Machines compute, but only the human mind can create and innovate.”

She also highlighted the growing prominence of styling as a profession: “A decade ago, styling was confined to film sets and magazines. Today, it’s a sought-after career across OTT platforms, advertising, weddings, corporate shoots, and social media—making it one of the most aspirational professions.”

Anjali Gaekwar, luxury retail entrepreneur and co-founder of Lighthouse, added, “Design is ingrained in who we are—it’s part of our DNA. AI is merely a tool. The modern Indian luxury consumer has shifted from aspiration to appreciation, seeking not just products but authentic experiences.”

Namrata Joshipura, internationally acclaimed fashion designer, shared, “Indian fashion is no longer bound by geography. Our craftsmanship speaks a universal language, and when combined with contemporary silhouettes, it resonates with women globally.”

Challenges and Opportunities

The panel also addressed concerns around AI’s potential to replicate signature styles and flood markets with inexpensive imitations—making copyright protection and originality critical priorities for the industry.

The consensus was clear: India’s fashion remains rooted in heritage while embracing innovation, giving it a competitive edge in the global market.

“Fashion is both local and global, and India’s rich heritage paired with creativity and entrepreneurship makes it uniquely positioned to lead,” they concluded.

The session was attended by over 200 FLO and YFLO members and concluded on a lighter note with a Fashion Trivia game, where attendees collaborated in teams to test their fashion knowledge.